Argument Structure of Activity Verbs in Tigrinya

Abstract

This study describes and examines the argument structure of activity verbs in Tigrinya, utilizing the role and reference grammar (RRG) framework. Specifically, the study analyses the semantic intricacies of activity verbs, focusing on their relationship with predicates and their arguments. The study also explores the formal representation of logical structures (LS) and predicate decomposition. Besides, the aspectual features of activity verbs, such as [+dynamic, -static], -punctual], and - telic], are examined alongside a set of operators like DO, BECOME, INGR, and SEML, which delineate the six verb types. Data collection methods include native intuitions, fieldwork with speakers from the central Tigray zone (Axum and Adwa districts), and secondary sources from Tigrinya linguistic resources. Fieldwork involved structured interviews to capture natural language usage nuances. It is attested that activity verbs in Tigrinya exhibit [+dynamic, -static], -punctual], and - telic] properties, implying events without inherent final points. The general logical structure of such events is represented as [DO’ (x, [Pred’ (x) or (x, y)])] and (X ACT (manner) pred (x), where 'x' denotes agents, effectors, experiencers, and 'y' signifies themes, patients, or stimuli. The study also explores aspectual shifts observable through linguistic manipulations, such as adding or omitting demonstratives. For instance, the addition of the proximal demonstrative 'ʔɨz-' ('this') transforms activity events into accomplishments, while the distal demonstrative 'ʔɨt-' ('that') reverses this transformation. This research enhances our understanding of Tigrinya syntax and semantics by examining the structure and interpretation of activity verbs. The study reveals the intricate relationships between predicates and arguments, shedding light on the broader linguistic patterns of Tigrinya.